MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

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Phlegmasia cerulea dolens

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition Symptoms Signs and tests	Treatment Complications Calling your health care provider

Illustrations

Venous blood clot

Definition Return to top

An uncommon, severe form of deep venous thrombosis (clots in the vein), usually in the upper leg.

Symptoms Return to top

Below the blocked vein, phlegmasia cerulea dolens produces swelling, bluish color, and pain.

Signs and tests Return to top

See deep venous thrombosis.

Treatment Return to top

See deep venous thrombosis.

Complications Return to top

Progression of the clotting process in the vein may lead to increased swelling. This can cause a global compromise of the circulation in the limb, affecting both the arteries and the veins. This complication is called phlegmasia alba dolens and may lead to gangrene, requiring amputation.

Calling your health care provider Return to top

See your health care provider, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or get to an emergency room immediately if an arm or leg is seriously swollen, blue, and painful.

Update Date: 12/23/2002

Updated by: Elena Sgarbossa, M.D., Department of Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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